The 2026 Youth Olympic Games (JOJ) in Dakar, Senegal, are set to take place from February 22 to March 9, 2026. Beyond the sports competitions, the event is fostering a sense of community and friendship among participants. Athletes, volunteers, and visitors from diverse backgrounds are coming together, putting aside their differences in language and culture. This international gathering is proving to be a unique experience, where people from all over the world are learning to know and live with each other.
For young athletes, the JOJ is more than just a sports competition. It's an opportunity to discover new cultures, make friends, and share moments that transcend borders. Marwane Abba, a Nigerien swimmer, appreciates the convivial atmosphere at the games. He notes that communication is not a significant barrier, as many athletes speak English, and gestures are a universal language that helps them understand each other.
The thousands of volunteers mobilized for the event are also experiencing a sense of solidarity and camaraderie. Bilal Adama Mahamat, a Chadian volunteer from the Republic of Guinea, highlights the support and assistance that volunteers provide to each other. He has made friends at the event and feels a sense of belonging. This spirit of togetherness is reminiscent of Senegal's famous Teranga hospitality.
Yasaint Libabe, a Belgian of Congolese origin, is one of the 6,000 volunteers from Senegal and 90 other countries. He believes that the openness and willingness to learn from others are the greatest riches of an international event like the JOJ. The diversity of cultures and backgrounds is a strength that brings people together.
The JOJ is also an opportunity for people to discover and connect with different cultures. Carine Técla Biaga, a Cameroonian, emphasizes that the Olympic spirit is about bringing people together, regardless of their backgrounds or nationalities. She believes that the games promote multiculturalism and understanding.
Moussa Moussine, a Senegalese, shares this sentiment, highlighting the sense of solidarity that extends beyond the athletic fields to the stands. He appreciates the cultural exchange and the experience of living together that the JOJ provides. The games are a reminder that sports can bring people together and transcend borders.
As the JOJ continues, the memories and connections made will likely endure long after the event. The games are a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and foster global understanding. This article was produced as part of a co-production project at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, supported by Norway and Swiss cooperation, between six media outlets from the Hirondelle Foundation.
Key points
- The 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar are fostering a sense of community and friendship among athletes, volunteers, and visitors from around the world.
